Sooke council has taken a cautious step toward adopting the B.C. Energy Step Code but stopped short of directing staff to prepare a report on implementing the energy-efficiency standard in new buildings.
The B.C. Energy Step Code sets mandatory energy-efficiency targets for new buildings, aiming for net-zero energy-ready standards by 2032. Municipalities can incorporate the code into their bylaws, requiring developers to meet these targets through energy modelling and on-site testing.
While councillors broadly supported the Step Code as a tool to meet climate goals and provincial mandates, some questioned whether its introduction was necessary — or potentially premature — for local bylaws.
"My feeling is we're not ready yet," said Coun. Al Beddows. "The province says more information is coming, and we should wait for more clarity."
The district must address emissions, said Coun. Kevin Pearson, and he's not opposed to the Step Code concept. However, he noted the province will soon mandate the process, and he worried council might be adding unnecessary bureaucracy.
Coun. Jeff Bateman emphasized balancing climate action with economic realities. He proposed a motion requesting a high-level staff report outlining the process, timeline, and potential implications of adopting the Step Code. The motion failed on a 3-3 tie.
Environmental groups and builders have urged the council to act quickly. The Step Code features multiple levels, or "steps," each representing a higher degree of energy efficiency. Step 1 requires basic code compliance with energy performance testing, while Step 4 demands highly energy-efficient, net-zero energy-ready buildings.
At the Nov. 25 council meeting, several presenters advocated for adopting Step Code Level 4, which would phase out gas appliances in new homes.
“Sooke residents are relying on council to take bold leadership, to build with the community’s best interests at heart,” said Jane Devonshire of the South Island Climate Action Network.
Council’s decision to explore a staff report signals interest in adopting the code ahead of the province’s 2032 timeline. The report would provide a road map for integrating the Step Code into Sooke’s building bylaws, ensuring alignment with local conditions.
Several southern Vancouver Island municipalities, including Victoria, Saanich, Central Saanich, Colwood, Esquimalt, Oak Bay, and View Royal, have already adopted the Step Code.
